Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes

If you love hearty, savory comfort food, Salisbury Meatballs with Mashed Potatoes is a dish that brings together tender, juicy meatballs smothered in a rich, flavorful gravy and paired with creamy mashed potatoes. Inspired by the classic Salisbury steak, these meatballs offer all the flavor of the traditional dish but in bite-sized portions that make them easy to prepare, serve, and enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a comforting meal for a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy.

What are Salisbury Meatballs?

Salisbury meatballs are essentially a twist on the famous Salisbury steak, a dish that originated in the late 19th century as a way to serve ground beef in a more refined manner. Traditionally, Salisbury steak is made with seasoned ground beef shaped into patties, then cooked in a savory brown gravy. In this version, the beef mixture is rolled into meatballs instead of patties, making it easier to cook and serve.

The rich and savory Salisbury sauce—a blend of beef broth, onions, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and a hint of ketchup—creates a luscious gravy that coats the meatballs perfectly. Paired with creamy mashed potatoes, this dish brings together hearty flavors and textures that are both comforting and indulgent.

Ingredients for Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes:

For the Salisbury Meatballs:

• Ground beef: Juicy, flavorful beef is the star of the dish. A mixture with some fat (80/20 lean-to-fat ratio) ensures the meatballs stay tender and moist.
• Breadcrumbs and milk: These ingredients help bind the meatballs while keeping them light and tender.
• Egg: Adds richness and helps hold the meatballs together.
• Onion and garlic: Classic aromatics that add depth and flavor to both the meatballs and gravy.
• Worcestershire sauce and ketchup: Essential for that signature Salisbury flavor—a mix of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a touch of mustard enhance the overall flavor.

For the Salisbury Sauce:

• Beef broth: A rich base for the gravy, providing deep, meaty flavor.
• Onion and garlic: Sautéed until soft and fragrant, adding sweetness and complexity to the sauce.
• Worcestershire sauce and ketchup: These two ingredients bring savory, umami notes with a subtle sweetness that enhances the meatballs.
• Flour: Used to thicken the sauce to the perfect consistency.

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• Potatoes: Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes work best for creamy, fluffy mashed potatoes.
• Butter and milk (or cream): Essential for richness and smooth texture.
• Seasonings: A simple combination of salt and pepper, with optional herbs like chives or parsley for garnish.

How to Make Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes:

Step 1: Make the Meatballs

1. Combine the ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the ground beef, breadcrumbs, milk, egg, chopped onion, garlic, Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to gently mix until all the ingredients are evenly combined.
2. Form the meatballs: Roll the mixture into 1- to 1.5-inch meatballs and place them on a tray or plate. You should have about 12-16 meatballs, depending on the size.
3. Cook the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Brown the meatballs in batches, turning them occasionally to ensure all sides are evenly cooked (about 6-8 minutes). Remove the meatballs from the pan and set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Salisbury Sauce

1. Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until soft and golden brown. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Make the gravy: Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic and stir to coat. Cook for about 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Gradually add the beef broth, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, ketchup, and mustard (if using).
3. Simmer: Bring the sauce to a simmer and let it cook for about 5 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Cook the Meatballs in the Sauce

1. Return the meatballs to the pan: Add the browned meatballs back into the skillet with the gravy. Cover and simmer for another 10 minutes, allowing the meatballs to cook through and absorb the flavors of the sauce.
2. Check the consistency: If the sauce is too thick, add a splash of water or more beef broth to loosen it up.

Step 4: Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. Cook the potatoes: While the meatballs are simmering, peel and chop the potatoes into even pieces. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
2. Mash the potatoes: Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and warm milk, and mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Serve

• Plate the dish: Spoon a generous portion of mashed potatoes onto each plate. Top with a few Salisbury meatballs and drizzle the rich gravy over everything. Garnish with chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color.

Why This Dish is a Winner:

• Comfort food perfection: Salisbury meatballs are the ultimate comfort food—rich, savory, and satisfying. Paired with mashed potatoes, they create a meal that’s perfect for cozy dinners.
• Meal prep-friendly: You can make the meatballs and gravy ahead of time and reheat them when ready to serve. The mashed potatoes can also be made in advance and reheated, making this an excellent dish for meal prep.
• Kid-friendly: The flavors of this dish are mild yet savory, making it a hit with both kids and adults alike. Plus, who can resist meatballs and mashed potatoes?

Variations:

1. Turkey or Chicken Meatballs: For a lighter version, you can substitute ground turkey or chicken for the beef.
2. Add Veggies: Incorporate vegetables like sautéed mushrooms, peas, or carrots into the gravy for added texture and nutrition.
3. Cheesy Mashed Potatoes: For extra indulgence, mix shredded cheese into the mashed potatoes.

Final Thoughts:

Salisbury Meatballs and Mashed Potatoes are a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any night of the week. With its tender meatballs, rich gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is hearty, filling, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a cozy meal for your family or something special to serve guests, this recipe is sure to please. Give it a try, and you’ll see why Salisbury meatballs are a timeless favorite!